On the Issues
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HATE CRIMES In September 2007, the Matthew Shepard Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2007 passed the Senate as an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act. Senator Levin has long been a supporter of this legislation. The legislation will, for the first time, expand the definition of a hate crime to include gender, gender identity, disability and sexual orientation. It gives the Justice Department jurisdiction over crimes of violence committed because of a person's actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or disability whereas existing law only covers race, color, religion, or national origin-based hate crimes, where the victim was engaging in one of six �federally protected activities.�* The legislation also expands federal jurisdiction to provide protection against hate crimes. Under current federal law, hate crimes can only be prosecuted if they involve race, color, religion, or national origin and the victim was engaging in one of six �federally protected activities.� The legislation that passed the Senate eliminated this requirement. Senator Levin believes that his legislation is long overdue and is hopeful that this legislation will be signed into law. *The six federally protected activities are attending or enrolling in any public school or public college; participating in any benefit, service, privilege, program, facility or activity administered by a state or local government; applying for or working in private or state employment; serving as a juror or prospective juror in a state court; using a facility of interstate commerce or a common carrier; or enjoying public accommodations or places of exhibition or entertainment. |
Combating Drug Addiction
Addiction to drugs is a dreadful plague on our society, and the goal of ridding society of the scourge of illegal drugs is worthy of our best efforts. more >
Gun Safety
According to the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, nearly 80 people a day die in the United States from gun-related suicides, homicides and unintentional injuries. Congress needs to do its part by closing the gun show loophole. more >
Hate Crimes
In the 107th Congress, a procedural vote prevented the Senate from considering the Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act, otherwise known as the hate crimes bill. The efforts to block the bill's consideration were particularly disappointing because there is bipartisan support in the Senate for passing hate crimes legislation. more >
Money Laundering
Money laundering helps terrorists, drug traffickers, and other criminals to disguise dirty money, move funds and carry out criminal acts. Senator Levin has been a leader in the Senate efforts to strengthen anti-money laundering laws and procedures to prevent terrorists and other criminals from using our financial systems against us. more >
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